Title: Let Peace Reign.

James 3:16  For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

2 Thessalonians 3:16  Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.

Devotion: In our daily walk, we are often confronted with various challenges and conflicts that test our patience and resolve. James 3:16 reminds us, "For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work." This verse speaks to the chaos that arises when we allow negative emotions such as envy and strife to take root in our hearts. When we harbor these feelings, they create an environment of confusion and open the door to all kinds of harmful actions and thoughts.

Contrast this with the message in 2 Thessalonians 3:16, which says, "Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all." This verse reassures us that true peace comes from the Lord. It is a divine gift that can calm our hearts and minds, no matter the circumstances we face. The peace of the Lord is a constant presence, a guiding light that helps us navigate the complexities of life with grace and tranquility.

Consider also the words of Jesus in John 14:27, "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." Jesus offers us a peace that is unlike anything the world can provide. It is a peace that transcends understanding, a peace that reassures us even in the midst of turmoil.

To let peace reign in our lives, we must make a conscious effort to seek it and cultivate it. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This passage teaches us that through prayer and a thankful heart, we can invite God's peace into our lives, allowing it to protect and guide us.

In moments of conflict or stress, let us remember the wisdom of Proverbs 15:1, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." By choosing to respond with gentleness and understanding, we can de-escalate tense situations and foster an atmosphere of peace.

As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to embody the peace that comes from the Lord. Let us be peacemakers, as Jesus described in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." By seeking peace and pursuing it, we reflect the love and grace of our Heavenly Father, and we become instruments of His peace in a world that desperately needs it.

Let peace reign in our hearts, our homes, and our communities. Let it be the guiding principle in all our interactions and decisions. May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always by all means. Amen.

©Dr Joel Olanrewaju. Please share your thoughts with me at gbemide09@gmail.com. Do feel free to share this with your contacts. Shalom.